The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant R. A. Sandel (ASN: 18062735), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against the enemy at Normandy, France, on 7 June 1944. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Sergeant R. A. Sandel (ASN: 18062735), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 8 January 1945, near ****, Belgium. Sergeant Sandel displayed remarkable courage in directing his machine gun platoon in the successful support of the attacking company. A squad was in position with the assigned mission of supporting the assault when it suffered a direct hit by an enemy mortar shell. Although painfully wounded about the face, neck and hands, Sergeant Sandel removed the wounded to a position of comparative safety. After administering first aid, he directed another gun in the firing of the important support. As a result of this gallant action, the enemy was repulsed with heavy casualties and a route of march into town was made available. This gallant conduct on the part of Sergeant Sandel was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Airborne Forces.